Challenges of Spa Tourism in Andalusia: Experts' Proposed Solutions

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Feb 13;18(4):1829. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18041829.

Abstract

Water is the common thread and attraction factor of the tourism facilities called "spas", which are part of health and beauty services. Spa use is currently experiencing a boom that reflects changes in populations, such as an increase in economic wellbeing and a desire to reunite with nature. This research's objectives were to understand spa tourism's structural and operational dimensions and to assess this sector's current situation by using the Delphi method with a panel of 22 experts. The results show that these experts believe that, in Andalusia, spas energize the area as a tourism destination through their natural resources and conservation of key elements. However, spa development policies are scarce, including a lack of autonomous community laws regarding these facilities.

Keywords: Andalusia; Delphi; health; spa; tourism.

MeSH terms

  • Medical Tourism*
  • Natural Resources
  • Tourism*